01-05-2025
Mohali MC issues notices to RWAs over neglect of public parks
Taking steps toward improving the maintenance of public parks, the Mohali Municipal Corporation has issued notices to several Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) for failing to properly manage the parks entrusted to them.
Out of the total 798 parks in the city within the corporation's jurisdiction, 190 parks have been handed over to various welfare associations for upkeep. However, according to municipal officials, several associations have failed to meet expectations in maintaining these green spaces. 'The condition of many parks is extremely poor, although a few are being managed relatively well,' an official said.
Sources said that the corporation had also issued notices last financial year, demanding an account of the funds provided. Numerous associations were found lacking in basic upkeep. Some failed to paint railings, others didn't install proper signboards, and multiple irregularities were discovered. While a few associations responded to the notices, many did not reply at all.
Now the corporation is preparing to take action once again, issuing fresh notices.
The MC allocates approximately Rs 16.44 lakh every month to these associations for park maintenance. This amount is distributed at a rate of Rs 4.23 per square metre, which officials claim is higher than the rates quoted by private contractors. 'Several contractors undertake similar work at lower rates, yet many associations, despite receiving more funds fail to deliver satisfactory results,' said one official.
One municipal officer pointed out, 'When a contractor does poor work, we can take strict action or even blacklist them. But dealing with welfare associations often involves external pressures and complications.'
Ward No. 70 councillor Pramod Mitra recently submitted a formal complaint to the Municipal Commissioner, along with video evidence showing overgrown congress grass in a park in his ward. He alleged that despite receiving the full funding, the local association has done little to maintain the park.
A senior corporation official emphasised the importance of transparency and responsible use of public funds.
'Government funds must be utilised properly and transparently. If an association fails to maintain a park responsibly, the corporation may consider withdrawing the park's management from them in the future,' he said.
